Lockheed Martin wins U.S. Army contract to support targeting systems on Saudis’ Apache helicopters

Lockheed Martin received a $22 million contract from the U.S. Army to provide Modernized Target Acquisition Designation Sight/Pilot Night Vision Sensor (M-TADS/PNVS) special repair activities for the Royal Saudi Land Forces Aviation Command’s Apache attack helicopters.

Forward-looking infrared sensors provide enhanced image resolution that enables Apache aircrews to prosecute targets and provide situational awareness in support of ground troops outside detection ranges. Lockheed Martin has delivered more than 1,200 M-TADS/PNVS systems to the U.S. Army and international customers.

Under this three-year contract, Lockheed Martin will provide tools and test equipment to maintain components of the M-TADS/PNVS system. The Royal Saudi Land Forces Aviation Command will receive in-country support beginning in the first quarter of 2014. The period of performance under this contract extends through 2017.

“Saudi Arabia is the second international customer to establish an M-TADS/PNVS in-country Special Repair Activity,” said Mike Taylor, M-TADS/PNVS international and fleet support director at Lockheed Martin Missiles and Fire Control. “Providing test and repair capabilities for international customers greatly increases supply availability and maximizes Apache mission effectiveness.”

Fielded in 2005, the M-TADS/PNVS system provides Apache attack helicopter pilots with long-range, precision engagement and pilotage capabilities for mission success and flight safety in day, night and adverse weather missions. Forward-looking infrared sensors provide enhanced image resolution that enables Apache aircrews to prosecute targets and provide situational awareness in support of ground troops outside detection ranges. Lockheed Martin has delivered more than 1,200 M-TADS/PNVS systems to the U.S. Army and international customers.